Numbers 5:20
But if thou hast gone aside to another instead of thy husband, and if thou be defiled, and some man have lain with thee beside thine husband:
Numbers 5:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse in the Bible addresses the issue of marital infidelity and the consequences that come with it. In this context, the verse is speaking to a woman who has strayed from her husband and been unfaithful. The language used here is quite direct and emphasizes the seriousness of the offense. The verse highlights the defilement that occurs when a person breaks the bond of marriage and engages in a sexual relationship with someone other than their spouse. The implication is that this act not only goes against the sanctity of marriage but also brings impurity and shame upon the individual who has committed the act. The verse serves as a warning against the sin of adultery and reinforces the importance of honoring the marriage vow and remaining faithful to one's spouse. It serves as a reminder of the consequences that can result from straying from the path of righteousness and breaking the sacred covenant of marriage.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the Book of Numbers, the focus is on the consequences of a woman committing adultery. The phrase "thou hast gone aside to another instead of thy husband" refers to a woman being unfaithful to her spouse. The word "defiled" indicates that the woman has become impure or tainted by her actions. The verse goes on to mention that if another man has been with her, it is not only a violation of the marriage covenant but also a defilement of the woman. This verse highlights the seriousness of adultery in religious and moral contexts. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and the significance of remaining faithful to one's spouse. It also serves as a reminder of the moral standards that believers are expected to uphold in their relationships. Word studies on terms like "defiled" can provide deeper insights into the meaning and implications of the verse, shedding light on the spiritual and ethical implications of adultery in the biblical context.
Numbers 5:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
But if thou have gone aside, being under thy husband, and if thou be defiled, and some man have lain with thee besides thy husband:
World English Bible
But if you have gone astray, being under your husband, and if you are defiled, and some man has lain with you besides your husband:”
Douay-Rheims
But if thou hast gone aside from thy husband, and art defiled, and hast lain with another man:
Geneva Bible (1599)
But if thou hast turned from thine husband, and so art defiled, and some man hath lyen with thee beside thine husband,